CSEA Hosts Fireside Chat on Re-Shaping Nigeria’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Agenda

The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST), hosted a fireside chat with the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, titled “Re-Shaping Nigeria’s Potential in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).” The event was held on 15 December 2025 at the CSEA Conference Hall, Abuja, and convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from academia, government, civil society, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), and the media.

The dialogue provided a platform for stakeholders to gain insights into the Ministry’s strategic priorities, explore opportunities for collaboration, and discuss the risks and dependencies shaping the implementation of Nigeria’s STI agenda. The fireside chat was moderated by Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, Executive Director of CSEA, where discussions centred on how Nigeria can harness its youthful population, natural resources, and strategic advantages to accelerate progress in science, technology, and innovation for sustainable national development. The session  enabled participants to engage directly with the Minister on his vision and priorities for advancing STI in Nigeria, while exploring evidence-based recommendations to support policy formulation and implementation.

The event closed  with closing remarks by Dr. Adedeji Adeniran, Director of Research at CSEA, who underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in driving Nigeria’s STI ambitions. He also reaffirmed CSEA’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue that supports evidence based policymaking and innovation led development.